Patience proved key for Manchester United, who turned sustained pressure into three points through Maya Le Tissier’s calmly taken penalty. Against a stubborn Valerenga side, United’s control and composure were tested, but their defensive discipline ensured a deserved 1–0 win. Read our full Women’s Champions League Manchester United vs. Vålerenga Match Report here.
Match Highlights
Maya Le Tissier scored from the spot, opening the scoring for Man Utd.
Source: Manchester United Women
Maya Le Tissier Opened the Scoring
Manchester United made a bright start, immediately testing the Valerenga defence and controlling the tempo of the opening minutes. Malard was quick to press high up the pitch, winning her side an early corner after being dispossessed in an advanced position.
The first 15 minutes passed without major incident, but United remained firmly in control, creating several half-chances. Terland threatened in the opening minute, while Miyazawa later tried her luck from distance, keeping the Valerenga goalkeeper alert.
Valerenga’s first meaningful attack came in the 23rd minute when Zigiotti Olme was dispossessed deep in Manchester United’s half. The Norwegian side drove forward quickly, but their shot was comfortably saved by Tullis-Joyce.
Six minutes later, the breakthrough arrived. In the 29th minute, Zigiotti Olme’s clever ball into the box struck a Valerenga defender’s arm, and the referee immediately pointed to the spot. After a brief VAR check, Maya Le Tissier stepped up and confidently converted the penalty to give Manchester United a deserved 1–0 lead.
Source: Manchester United Women
Vålerenga Fights Back
The second half began with immediate action as Enblom was called into a crucial save within minutes of the restart. Jess Park broke through the Valerenga defence and charged towards goal, but the goalkeeper reacted quickly, coming off her line to deny the England international.
Despite the lively opening, the match soon began to resemble the first half, with Manchester United maintaining control but struggling to make their dominance count. Valerenga continued to battle for possession but were largely pinned back in their own half.
Just after the hour mark, Terland twice came close to doubling United’s lead. Her first effort was blocked by a defender after an excellent interception from Jess Park, while her second attempt drifted narrowly wide of the post.
Malard then tried to extend United’s advantage with a curling effort from outside the box, but her shot flew just over the crossbar. Valerenga managed to create their first real opening of the second half, sending the ball into a dangerous area inside the box, but Tullis-Joyce was alert and collected it safely.
In the closing minutes, Sandberg and Toone made way for Simi Awujo and Gabby George as Manchester United looked to see out the match. Valerenga pushed hard for an equaliser in the final stages, but United’s defence held firm to secure a 1–0 victory.
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